Ogun partners British firm to improve electricity supply

Abiodun

Prince Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has signed a pact with a British power firm to improve electricity supply in the state.

Signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the State government and the British Power Firm, Konexa, in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta yesterday (Thursday), the governor emphasised the need for the State to have a constant power supply at all times to serve existing companies and attract new ones.

Prince Abiodun says the State, as an industrial hub of the country, will need an increased supply of electricity to unlock more of its economic potentials and attract more investors to the State.

The Governor opined that there was a nexus between industrial development, as large, medium and small-scale businesses rely on power to thrive, adding that self-sufficiency in electricity would encourage artisans to venture into small businesses which would further boost the industrial capacity of the State.

"We are rebuilding roads and providing affordable housing to our people and those who will want to come and invest in the State. Currently, we are embarking on the construction of 2,500 affordable houses across the State. 

We are also going to construct 10,000 houses that will cost between N1m to N2m. For us to harness some potentials, we need adequate supply of electricity as this will encourage more investors." the Governor explained.

On township renewal, Prince Abiodun called for collaboration from interested investors, stressing the need for a total remodeling of Ibafo- Mowe axis, as well as the Ado-Odo/Ota corridor, as these towns were allowed to grow without proper planning.

He expressed the hope that the MoU would be mutually beneficial, adding that the State government was looking forward to tapping from the company’s expertise for the benefit of the people.

Speaking, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Nigeria who led the company's delegation, Mr. Ben Lienellyn-Jones, said the company was determnined to partner with the government in the area of energy, power and other businesses to create more jobs.

He said the company was inspired by the vision and steps taken by the Governor in liberalising the economy and providing a business-friendly environment that supports investors.

Also speaking, a Director in the Company, Mr. Joel Abrams, said the company would make 250 Megawatts of electricity available to serve 50, 000 residents and companies at the initial stage, which he said would be improved upon subsequently.

On his part, Personal Head, Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, Mr. Ademola Adewumni, maintained that the partnership, would enhance supply of electricity in the State, assuring that his organisation would provide the needed support in the areas of supply and distribution.